Michael Karanga receives his trophy from KGU Chairman Chris Kinuthia after winning the 2025 NCBA Nanyuki Open

By DANIELLA APIYO AND AMANDA DAMARIS

The inaugural NCBA Nanyuki Open 2025 concluded in thrilling fashion at the scenic Nanyuki Sports Club, with Michael Karanga capturing the tournament’s first-ever title. The event, which drew 74 top amateurs with a handicap limit of 13.5, delivered on its promise of world-class golf against the backdrop of Mt. Kenya. Click this link https://a.meridianbet.ke/c/C7pYjz to start gaming and stand a chance of winning big with Meridianbet.

Karanga, currently ranked 70th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, showcased his trademark consistency and sharp play to outlast a competitive field. Among the top contenders were John Lejirma, Elvis Muigua, and Ebill Omollo, who pushed the champion all the way in a fiercely contested tournament.

The championship featured a prize purse of Kes 500,000, underscoring the NCBA Nanyuki Open’s growing stature and solidifying its place on the Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) circuit. Beyond the competition, the event spotlighted Nanyuki Sports Club’s rich golfing tradition, challenging course, and panoramic views, while also offering fans a weekend of sport, community, and hospitality.

During the prize-giving ceremony, the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) announced the four-man national team set to represent the country at the Africa Region IV Championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar, from 25th to 29th November 2025.

The team includes:

• John Lejirma (Captain) – Reigning Kenya No. 1, ranked 74th in the WAGR. Winner of seven KAGC titles this season.Michael Karanga – Ranked 70th WAGR, winner of five titles this year including the Kenya Amateur Match Play Championship, securing him a spot at the 2026 Magical Kenya Open.
• Elvis Muigua – Three-time champion this year, currently ranked 418th WAGR.
• Junaid Ayaz Manji – Kenya’s top junior golfer, ranked 822nd WAGR, with two titles in 2025 and captain of the junior team at the All Africa Junior Golf Team Championship.

The same trio of Lejirma, Karanga, and Muigua delivered victory for Kenya in Kigali last year. With Junaid now strengthening the side, confidence is high for a successful title defense under Coach Saleem Haji.

Speaking after the announcement, the KGU Chairman said:

“This team reflects the strength and depth of Kenyan golf at both senior and junior levels. We are confident they will rise to the occasion and bring the trophy back home.”

Karanga, celebrating both his Nanyuki Open victory and his place on the national team, added:

“Winning the inaugural NCBA Nanyuki Open is a proud moment. I’m equally honored to represent Kenya once again, and we are determined to make the country proud in Madagascar.”

With the success of the NCBA Nanyuki Open, the Kenya Golf Union and NCBA Group have set a strong foundation for the event to become a permanent fixture on the KAGC calendar, promising even greater competition and opportunities for Kenya’s golfing talent in the years to come.